Webb unavailable of historic Rovers cup tie

Shamrock Rovers play their first home FAI Cup tie in 22 years when they take on Drogheda United tonight.

Sean Webb remains sidelined due a back problem, otherwise Shamrock Rovers have a full squad to call on for the cup tie.

Hoops boss Michael O’Neill said: "Everyone’s fighting fit and we’ve had a really good week in training as, unlike previous weeks, we hadn’t a midweek game to play.

“It’s a cup game, so anything can happen. We know what Drogheda are capable of after playing them twice already, home and away, with both games ending up draws.

“They’re at the stage where they’re moulding much better, which is understandable given they had pretty much no pre-season. We expect a very difficult tie against them.

“It’s another momentous occasion for Shamrock Rovers as it’s the club’s first FAI Ford Cup tie in Tallaght Stadium. For the supporters it’s bridging a gap of 22 years.

“Hopefully that will mean a very good atmosphere and that will help the players to put on a performance and get the right result. We’re certainly looking forward to it.

“Shamrock Rovers have a fantastic overall record in this competition and hopefully this game will mark the beginning of the current side contributing to that history.”

Drogheda United will be looking to build on their recent good form and they travel with a strong squad, although boss Alan Mathews still has concerns over keeper Steve Williams and striker Robbie Martin.